Students charged in explosion

April 27, 2012

Police say three student-athletes were among four men responsible for a chemical explosion inside a Lenoir-Rhyne University dorm earlier this week.

Hickory fire and police responded to Morgan Dorm just after 8:30 p.m. Tuesday after receiving a call of an explosion.

Authorities found a plastic drink bottle that had been placed in a bathroom and exploded due to a chemical reaction from the contents inside, said Libby Grigg, chiefâ€™s assistant at Hickory Police Department.

No injuries or damage occurred.

Four students turned themselves in to authorities Thursday and are charged with disorderly conduct.

Thomas is listed as a freshman offensive lineman on the football team, according to Lenoir-Rhyne Universityâ€™s website. On the same website, Schlegelmich is listed a sophomore defender on the lacrosse team, while McGhee, also a sophomore, is listed as a goaltender.